INDIANA, Pa. — IUP used a fast start and a strong defensive effort to cruise past Lincoln 82–57 on Saturday at Memorial Field House.

The Crimson Hawks jumped out to a 44–25 halftime lead, hitting 13 3-pointers and forcing 19 turnovers to improve to 2–0 on the season. IUP shot 44 percent from the field and 82 percent at the line while outrebounding the Lions 39–37.

Kymani Merraro led IUP with 20 points on 5-of-10 shooting, including four 3-pointers, and went 6-for-6 at the foul line. Dallis Dillard added 17 points, four assists and three steals, and Christian Moore finished with 13 points.

Lincoln was paced by Julius Olanrewaju, who posted 15 points and 15 rebounds while shooting 6-for-7 from the field. Bonard Johnson scored 10 points and hit two 3-pointers.

IUP outscored the Lions 17–4 in fast-break points and turned 19 Lincoln turnovers into 22 points. The Crimson Hawks also held a 19–14 edge in second-chance scoring.

IUP continues its nonconference schedule next week, while Lincoln falls to 1–1 on the season.